Top tips for summer W
ith international travel off the cards for now, many of us will once again be hitting the road for Kiwi adventures this summer. Here are some tips to keep your asthma and allergies at bay while enjoying the warmer months.
1. Have a plan in place Before you travel, make sure that you have an up-to-date asthma action plan. Having a self management plan helps you to identify when your symptoms are worsening and what to do when this happens. You can download a free asthma action plan on the Resources tab of the ARFNZ website – asthmafoundation.org.nz
2. Know your triggers
and drink plenty of water. Try to plan your outdoor activities for first thing in the morning or later in the day when it’s cooler.
6. Stay hydrated While this tip may seem obvious, it’s so important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated in the summer heat. Whether you’re making a pit stop in a rural town or driving long distances, we suggest you always keep a good supply of water with you.
7. Know where the nearest medical facility is If you’re going away, be aware of where the nearest GP, hospital or after-hours medical facility is, so you’re well prepared should you need to seek medical attention.
A trigger is something that makes your asthma symptoms flare up. Pollen and hot, humid weather can both be triggers, and both are more common in summer. If you know what your triggers are, you can try to avoid those things and reduce the chance of an asthma exacerbation.
Have your asthma action plan on you at all times with the...
If pollen is one of your triggers, it’s a good idea to stay indoors if the pollen count is high or if it’s very windy. You can also keep windows and doors closed to limit exposure.
With the My Asthma App you can have your asthma action plan with you no matter where you are – even with no internet connection!
3. Have your medication handy Make sure you keep taking your asthma medication as prescribed while you’re on holiday, and always have your reliever inhaler on hand should you need it. Check you have enough medication to see you through the holiday period. This is especially important if you’re going away, as it may not be easy to access asthma medication if you need it suddenly.
4. Store your medication safely Keep your medication in a cool, dry place that you can reach easily. Don’t leave it in direct sunlight or in the car, as this can cause it to overheat.
5. Stay cool If heat triggers your asthma, stay indoors or somewhere cool
8 Better Breathing
My Asthma app
The My Asthma App means all your asthma management information is at your fingertips, with customisable action plans, information on triggers, and steps to follow in an asthma emergency.
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